Lecture
Details
Public service broadcasting has entered a transformation era in delivering news and information in Africa, and across the world. Technologically advanced communities can now not only listen to news but be a part of the interactions through streaming platforms. Part of the reason is that multimedia transcends infrastructure deficits and overcomes language barriers.
Given such extensive reach, the importance of the public service broadcasting on the continent is crucial It serves diverse audiences across urban and rural areas, bridging economic and political divides. However, in some cases, what is meant to be public service broadcasting instead becomes a vehicle for state propaganda or serves as a source of government news. Meanwhile, some channels would choose or appear to be partisan when, in the main, their role is to inform and educate the public, raising concerns about media integrity and press freedom.
To explore these challenges and opportunities, the first Adenauer Media Lecture for this year will take place at Wits University on 18 March 2025. This initiative is a collaboration between KAS Media Africa and the Wits Centre for Journalism.
We are honoured to welcome Dr. Peter Frey – former Editor-in-Chief of ZDF - publicist, journalist, speaker, and a renowned expert in public service broadcasting - as the keynote speaker for this lecture.
Following the lecture, a roundtable discussion will focus on the role of journalism education in shaping the future of public service media.
